Three New Casinos in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts State Government passed the new controversial legislation authorizing the creating of three new casinos and a slot parlor. The bill is expected to be signed into law by Governor Patrick Deval shortly.

The controversial bill has a long history. In its original form, it included an article authorizing the licensing of online casinos in Massachusetts. With this article included the bill passed in the House. However, when it reached the Senate the online gambling article was erased. A special six member was appointed to reconcile the different versions of the bill. They chose to the version sans the online gambling article and resubmitted for final voting in the House and Senate. It passed the House by a vote of 118 to 33 and passed the Senate by a vote of 23 to 14.

Upon being signed into law, the bill is expected to ignite a bidding war among Massachusetts businessmen interested in capitalizing on the new situation. However, only two of the casinos will be available in an open commercial bid. The casino allocated for one of Massachusetts’ southern districts will be operated by a local Native American tribe on the condition they arrive at a revenue sharing agreement with state officials by July of 2012.

The bill was supported by both Democrats and Republicans who were looking for ways to help the State’s troubled economy both by adding jobs and by increasing tax revenue. However, there were those who were not so happy about the idea of using casinos to achieve those goals. Ruth Balser, a Democratic Representative from Newton, had very strong words about the bill. She said it would have a “devastating impact,” and that the bill is the wrong direction for Massachusetts.